The Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) published a report on February 29, Lessons Learned During the Pandemic Can Help Improve Care in Nursing Homes. The report is the final in a series of three and focuses on the experiences of nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The report is based on interviews with 25 nursing home administrators and reflects challenges in staffing, infection control including testing and personal protective equipment (PPE), vaccines, and the toll on residents and staff. OIG made five recommendations to CMS, including: expanding policies to strengthen workforce, reassessing nurse aide training and certification requirements, updating infection control requirements and guidance for compliance, and facilitating sharing of information and strategies to help nursing homes overcome challenges and improve care. Read this statement from LeadingAge President and CEO Katie Smith Sloan in reaction to the report.
